Spinal vertebrae are extremely strong and resilient, but they are still susceptible to fractures, just like the other bones in your body. A vertebral compression fracture occurs when a bone, or vertebra, in the spine collapses. These types of fractures often happen in the lower vertebra of the thoracic spine, or midback. The course of treatment will usually depend on the severity of the fracture and if there are any other associated injuries.
The five vertebrae that make up the lower back are the largest and strongest of all vertebrae along the spine. Spinal compression fractures usually occur in the thoracic and lumbar spine, or where these two vertebrae connect. A lumbar compression fracture is typically the result of underlying conditions such as osteoporosis or high-energy traumas. It can result in moderate to severe pain that worsens with movement.
Most healthy bones are able to withstand the constant pressure we put our bodies under. However, if this force is too great, one or more vertebrae may fracture. There are many causes of thoracic and lumbar compression fractures include the following:
A compression fracture can cause moderate to severe pain along either the thoracic or lumbar spine. There may be other injuries associated with these fractures, especially if the fracture was caused by a high-energy trauma. Symptoms for this condition may include:
Treating thoracic or lumbar compression fractures correctly depends on other associated injuries, the fracture pattern and whether there is any neurological damage. Once other injuries are stabilized, a doctor will be able to evaluate the spinal fracture and determine if surgery is necessary. The operations can be performed under moderate sedation rather than general anesthesia.
Some other ways to treat this condition may include:
If surgery is necessary to correct your compression fracture, reach out to us at Jackson Neurosurgery Clinic. Through innovative surgical techniques and equipment, Dr. Lewis can reduce the risk of patients developing serious neurological problems by treating the source of the pain and ensuring future damage is prevented. He has shared his knowledge and skills by teaching technical surgical courses to other surgeons across the country.
Contact us today to learn more about thoracic and lumbar compression fractures or to schedule a consultation. We’ll find a solution that works for you. Call us at (601) 366-1011.